Anker PowerCore 5000 Portable Charger Review

We recommend the Anker PowerCore 5000 for your portable charging needs for its small size, efficient charging, and build quality.

What Works

The Anker PowerCore 5000 can charge a flagship smartphone up to two times. It can also charge tablets and other devices that need a 2A connection, a rare feat for a charger this size.

Don't worry, it won't ruin anything that only needs 1A (your iPhone) thanks to Anker's PowerIQ technology that helps the battery recognize what's being charged. This charger is also smart enough to stop discharging power when a cable is not connected, so you don't have to constantly recharge it.

Though it has a plastic build, it's reinforced and can withstand a drop or two.

What Could Be Better

Though this can charge devices fairly quickly, it doesn't support Qualcomm's Quick Charge (typically on Android devices that use a Snapdragon processor) or any other fast charging standards. It won't take hours to charge your phone, but you won't get the "50–80 percent in 30 minutes" you may have grown accustomed to with newer phones.

If you value the fastest charging available for your Samsung Galaxy smartphone or iPhone 8, 8+, or X, stick with the brand's charger and cables or one of these USB-C alternatives.

It's a little bigger and heavier (it's less than ⅓ lb) than most "lipstick" chargers, but most of those have half the battery power. You'll get similar power to an entry level, brick-style portable charger in a tiny cylinder that can fit just about anywhere.

Warranty & Customer Support

Anker offers a 30-day money back guarantee and an 18-month warranty period. Their customer service team is responsive and helpful.